Most Grass Valley, Nevada City and Auburn CA landlords and property managers know that there is quite a bit involved in the care and maintenance of rental properties as far as responsibilities go. From habitability issues and smoke alarms, to door locks and leaks, it seems like the burden of maintenance for owners significantly outweighs that of tenants.
However, there are some very important aspects of a rental property that the tenant is responsible for. In order to ensure understanding by all parties and compliance by the tenants, it’s imperative that these things are outlined in the lease agreement. Establishing the expectations clearly helps to lead to a positive experience for both the landlord and the tenant.
Keeping the unit clean and sanitary
It is the tenant’s obligation to keep the rental property as clean as possible and dispose of all trash in its proper location and in a timely manner. This also includes keeping items and furniture tidy and from blocking any exit or windows that may need to be used in case of a fire or other emergency.
Proper use of all fixtures and appliances
Tenants are required to properly use and operate all electrical, gas and plumbing fixtures and appliances. Failure to use these items properly could lead to electrical, gas or plumbing problems or damage, which the tenant can be liable for.
Preventing damage to the rental property
Any damage, defacing, impairment or removal of part of the rental property by the tenant or the tenant’s guests is strictly prohibited and will be the responsibility of the tenant to repair or pay for damages.
Communicating issues to the landlord immediately
Tenants should always contact the landlord immediately whenever there are any problems with the rental property, especially if it involves leaks or possible water damage. Failure to report issues to the landlord could result in the tenant being responsible for repair costs.
Changing HVAC filters, light bulbs and smoke/CO detector batteries
Although a landlord is responsible for maintaining heating facilities, providing working electrical fixtures and smoke and CO detectors, the tenants should be checking these items frequently. HVAC filters should be changed every 3-4 months, depending on the season and air quality. Light bulbs should be replaced immediately when burned out so as not to create a hazardous situation. And smoke/CO detectors should be tested monthly to ensure they are working properly. If not, the tenant should replace the batteries or notify the landlord if new batteries don’t do the trick so a new unit can be purchased.
Pest control
Landlords are responsible for pest control services in the case of vermin or an ongoing pest situation that could be attributed to a problem in the building neighborhood. However, if it is found that the pests are present as a result of the tenant’s lack of cleanliness like taking out the trash in a timely manner or allowing food to accumulate in the kitchen, the tenant is responsible for pest services.
Plumbing issues
As mentioned above, the tenant is responsible for proper use of all fixtures, including plumbing. This is a commonly misunderstood one as tenants will often call when the toilet is clogged or the kitchen sink or bathtub won’t drain. If a plumber is sent out and it is determined that the issue was the result of negligence by the tenant, they will need to foot the bill for the repairs.
There are a variety of other obligations that are the responsibility of the tenant, but these are just the most common ones. The general idea is that the responsibilities center around the tenant properly caring for the rental and keeping it clean and habitable as they would if it were their own home.
Again, the most important thing is that these rules should all be outlined in the lease agreement. If you need help writing a lease agreement for your Grass Vallely, Nevada City or Auburn CA rental property, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us!
Written by Jessica Ornelas | Realtor/Property Manager | DRE# 02042367
Edited by Amelia Barrett, Barrett Property Management, Inc.
